Ghudani Kalan preserves traditions linked to Guru Hargobind’s visit

Ghudani Kalan, near Khanna in Punjab, preserves traditions associated with Guru Hargobind’s visit after his release from Gwalior Fort. Local tradition holds that he stayed in the village for about 45 days and gave the congregation a robe with 52 panels. The robe, along with items identified as his footwear and a religious text, is preserved at local gurdwaras. The village has four gurdwaras associated with the visit: Sri Damdama Sahib, Sri Nimmsar Sahib, Sri Bharola Sahib and Sri Chola Sahib. Devotees visit the sites and view the preserved items. Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates Guru Hargobind’s release and that of 52 kings.

Notable Points

• Ghudani Kalan robe and release tradition: In a traditional account, Guru Hargobind’s gown had 52 hems for the captive kings to hold as they left Gwalior Fort. A robe believed to be associated with this story is preserved in a glass case at Gurdwara Sri Chola Sahib in Ghudani Kalan. It is known as the bavanja kalian vala chola.
• Calendar recognition of Bandi Chhor Divas: In 2003, Sikh religious leaders and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee formally adopted Bandi Chhor Divas into the Nanakshahi calendar.